Chapter 36 - Streets of Ollu
After they exited the dragon compound to head across the city, Ash’s head couldn’t swivel fast enough.
The dragonboy had been too busy during the caravan trip keeping an eye on Rasp to fully experience the towns they had travelled through. The best way to keep the dragon away from strangers was just to avoid them and stay put in the dragon’s cart. So up till now he’d never had the chance to go explore. It hadn't bothered him as he was already experiencing more than any other dragonboy before him. Now he was able to traverse Ollu, which was even bigger and more exciting than all those other places.
There were stalls with food he’d never seen, goods he’d never seen, people with features he’d never seen. The boy knew demihumans were not common in the empire, but he guessed things were different here in the capital.
Ash caught himself staring a little too long at one woman strutting by with tiny hoofed feet. He couldn't help but turn red when he saw Tocc smirking at him knowingly.
They continued on, traversing grand avenues adorned with intricate dragon statues and narrow winding streets. And upon ascending to the top of a cobbled street, a grand view of the western half of Ollu City was revealed to Ash—a sprawling metropolis nestled among hills, its structures a harmonious blend of gray and white mountain stone. A cool breeze tickled his nose, carrying a refreshing scent from Lake Ollu, and he breathed deep.
Tocc halted after noticing Ash’s distracted state. He grinned and proudly bragged, "It's awesome, right? Ollu's the most powerful city on the continent. You can find anything you want here. Bet you haven't seen anything like it before."
Ash nodded, it sure is something! But something huge drew his eyes north.
The courier nodded, "Yeah, yeah, this is a great spot to see the palace. Its why I brought you this way. They've been improving it for a thousand years, or so its said."
So that's where the emperor lives. The boy couldn't help but feel a sense of pride looking at the structure.
From where they were standing on the hill, the imperial palace was the apex of Ollu's skyline. It was a harmonious blend of enchanted stone and otherworldly materials, stood as a testament to the empire's longevity. An emblem of imperial might and a realized dream. Glistening domes adorned with intricate mosaics and iridescent glass captured the sunlight, casting dancing reflections. And even from here, Ash could detect a faint glowing shimmer along the exterior walls, adding an otherworldly mystique to the majestic structure.
The dragonboy tore his eyes away, I don't have time to stare all day. I need to get this delivery done to get back before Rasp causes trouble...
They got to walking again after Ash got done boggling at the palace. But at a slower pace as the boy kept throwing glances over.
Tocc pointed out to a large hill in the distance with a series of spired buildings atop it. "There it is. The Mage Academy. That's where we need to go."
As they got farther from the dragonhouse, the atmosphere shifted. Tocc and Ash walked along, passing shops adorned with vibrant awnings and food stalls tempting passersby with savory aromas. The streets, filled with people and horse carriages, hummed with a lively energy. Merchants shouted about their wares, hawking goods ranging from exotic spices to finely crafted jewelry. Yet despite all the activity, a sense of order prevailed.
The dragonboy had to remember to blink, as his eyes were starting to dry out from all his gawking.
When they started passing nicer shops showing off quality goods in the windows, Ash was reminded of his rare monster horn. “Hey Tocc, you know of any good alchemists around? I want to check the price on something.”
“There’s one we passed a little while ago. We can turn back if you want?”
Ash mulled briefly, but decided against it, “Nah, some other time would be better I think." Delivering the letter quickly so he could get back to Rasp was more important. Besides, Rasp and I are going to be here for a while.
The streets began to slope upward, leading them to a higher part of the city. Ash noticed the architecture changing, becoming more refined, and the streets less crowded. Grand buildings adorned with intricate carvings stood as a testament to Ollu's wealth and power.
As they ascended the hill, Tocc shared bits of information about the city, as Ash's impromptu tour guide. "You see, Ash, the city is divided into several districts. Each one has its own unique character. You've already seen the Northern Imperial palace. Then there's the Dragon District to the east, where we came from, which is known for the dragon compound and the Royal Dragonguards. The center of Ollu has the Grand Bazaar. And the Mage District to the west, is home to the Mage Academy and many magical shops. They say the air even feels different here because of all the magical activity."
The Mage Academy came into full view as they reached the top of another hill.
Tocc chuckled at Ash's expression. "Looks amazing, right?"
